Symptoms of Gluten Intolerance and Celiac Disease
One of the most common questions asked in the forum is how to know if you are gluten intolerant or have celiac disease. While both conditions can cause similar symptoms, there are some key differences to be aware of.
Gluten Intolerance is a condition in which a person has difficulty digesting gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. Symptoms of gluten intolerance can include bloating, gas, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation.
Celiac Disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system attacks the small intestine when gluten is consumed. Symptoms of celiac disease can include fatigue, anemia, weight loss, and abdominal swelling.
Diagnosis and Testing
If you suspect that you may be gluten intolerant or have celiac disease, it is important to consult your doctor. They will be able to order tests to determine if you have either condition. The most common test used to diagnose gluten intolerance is the ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) test, which measures the levels of antibodies in the blood that are produced when gluten is consumed.
For celiac disease, the gold standard test is the biopsy of the small intestine, which can determine if the villi (tiny finger-like projections in the small intestine) have been damaged by the immune system.
Treatment
The treatment for both gluten intolerance and celiac disease is a gluten-free diet. This means avoiding foods that contain gluten such as breads, pastas, and cereals. It is important to read food labels carefully to ensure that all the ingredients are gluten-free.
It is also important to consult a dietitian or nutritionist to ensure that you are getting all the nutrients you need while following a gluten-free diet.
Conclusion
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to gluten intolerance or celiac disease, it is important to consult your doctor and get tested. Once diagnosed, the treatment is a gluten-free diet, which can help relieve symptoms and improve overall health.